Margaret River has scooped a coveted spot in the global Green Destinations Top 100 Sustainable Destinations Awards.
Each year the competition collects sustainable tourism stories and good practices from destinations all over the world to be shared as inspiring examples to others, from tourism professionals to travellers.
Margaret River was one of five Australian destinations named in the Top 100, alongside Bundaberg, Townsville, Port Douglas & Daintree, and the NSW Central Coast.
This year, Margaret River's submission focused on the recent Climate Action Summit. The submission was titled "A View from the Summit.'
Judges were impressed by the strong community involvement and engagement with the Summit, as well as the commitment from the community and Shire to deliver on the actions identified at the event.
It shows that our whole community is supporting environmental sustainability, and that's what makes our region so special.
- Saul Cresswell, Shire Sustainable Economy Officer
Shire Manager of Planning Matt Cuthbert said he was proud that the Shire had been recognised as a leader in environmental management.
"Our goal is to protect and enhance the unique natural environment and biodiversity of the region through positive climate action," Mr Cuthbert said.
"The Climate Action Summit was an incredibly valuable event which demonstrated the commitment of the Shire and the community to work together to ensure our environment is protected, rehabilitated and celebrated."
The Award represents a significant step towards Augusta Margaret River becoming certified as an ECO Destination.
"Recognition as one of the Top 100 Destination Sustainability Stories demonstrates that our work on becoming an ecotourism destination is gaining traction," said Shire Sustainable Economy Officer, Saul Cresswell.
"We're committed to sustainable practices and providing high quality nature-based tourism experiences throughout the region.
"But it shows even more than that; it shows that our whole community is supporting environmental sustainability, and that's what makes our region so special."
Sharna Kearney, Joint CEO and Group Manager for Marketing at the Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association also celebrated the accolade.
"This award sends a strong message about how much we care about our place," she said.
"Visitors are increasingly aware of the need to tread softly when they travel, and respect for our environment is an increasingly important factor in travellers' destination choices."
